Our Statement on Charlottesville

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On behalf of the leadership and membership of UAW Region 9A, we raise our voices to condemn the racial violence and hatred displayed by white supremacists in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Our hearts go out to the families of Heather Heyer and the two police officers who lost their lives last weekend.

These events reflect an environment of violence fostered by, even encouraged by, President Trump, whose campaign rhetoric and subsequent actions have emboldened organized hate groups. The strategy of dividing people based on race, gender, ethnic origin and sexual orientation historically has served to divide workers and enrich the 1%.

The UAW has a proud history of supporting movements for civil and human rights, here in the US, and across the globe. We vehemently oppose the bigotry and racist and anti-Semitic expression of the alt-right supporters who converged on Charlottesville. We urge our members to challenge anyone who shares or supports these ideas and the violence embedded in the alt-right movement. We urge our members to redouble efforts to stand up for unity, justice and equality now and every day as we continue to be faced with efforts to divide us and take away our rights. Building unity amongst our members and in our communities empowers us to challenge and confront the 1% and the government officials that do their bidding.

The UAW is dedicated to and works tirelessly to make life better and more just for people, not only in our workplaces, but in our communities and society at large. We urge our members to continue to participate in rallies and marches in the coming weeks that will clearly answer the question -- Which Side Are We On? As proud members of the UAW, we are on the side of social and economic justice for all.